A modern eco-home with a range of low carbon features has been given the go-ahead by a government planning inspector.
The three-bedroom property in Sutton, near Ely, will have specialist roofs made of plants, an air source heat pump, solar panels and electric vehicle charging.
It will also be built with high efficiency external materials and there will be a wild swimming area, set within around a third of an acre.
The plot, in The Row, already had permission for a home when the current owner purchased the land, but East Cambs planners refused the more modern design in May 2022.
The decision was appealed and Emma Worley, a government-appointed planning inspector, has now concluded the eco-build can go ahead.
Among her views, she felt the home will not appear “visually intrusive” in the context of the surrounding buildings and the construction noise would not be “over and above” normal residential use.
Her report, published on April 13, says: “...it is a carefully designed dwelling which is visually interesting and would reflect the time in which it was designed.
“Given that there is no prevailing architectural style or theme in the existing built form in this part of the village, the proposed form and materials of the proposed dwelling would do no harm and simply add to the variety.”
The property was designed by Gary Johns Architects, in Ely.
When complete, it will include a carport and workshop, three double bedrooms where two are ensuite, a music and craft room, downstairs shower room, storage room, pantry and large kitchen and dining space separate from the living room.
Cheffins helped secure the planning permission with the appeal.
Senior planner Ruth Gunton said: “There is scope in local and national planning policy for new, high-quality designs such as this...
“... and this is an important example of how just because a design might be unusual, it does not mean it is harmful to the character of the area or should be refused.”
Work is due to start in late 2023.
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